Kylian Mbappe's La Liga debut for Real Madrid ended in frustration on Sunday, as a determined Real Mallorca forced the reigning Spanish and European champions to settle for a 1-1 draw in their opening match of the title defence.
Mallorca goalkeeper Dominik Greif frustrated Mbappe's effort to net a goal. After Rodrygo Goes put Madrid in front early, the hosts equalized in the second half with a powerful header from Vedat Muriqi.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti selected the same starting line-up which defeated Atalanta to win the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday, with Jude Bellingham in midfield behind the Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo attacking line.
Mallorca coach Jagoba Arrasate was facing his first match in charge of the Copa del Rey runners-up and could not have asked for a tougher challenge on paper than the reigning champions, bolstered by Mbappe’s arrival.
However, his team rose to the challenge and earned a creditable point.
Madrid, who lost just once last season as they marched convincingly to the title, started quickly and took the lead after a slick combination between their Brazilian forwards.
Vinicius rolled the ball backwards for Rodrygo to collect in the area and the winger bent a shot into the far corner, beyond the reach of Greif.
The goalkeeper tipped away another Rodrygo effort and Mbappe sent an effort wide as Madrid stayed on top but could not expand upon their advantage.
